It Is Well

Often we read the bible or passages in the bible without *getting* it. Many lessons can be found in one passage of scripture if we take the time to allow the Holy Spirit to speak to us, teach us, and encourage us. I don't want to miss a thing. I want the passion and the message poured into my life, as well as flowing out, for others to see, hear and know Jesus! It's about glorifying Him.

My last post I talked about hearing the gospel and as christians, we may have heard it so much that we are not *moved* by it anymore. I find this true as well in reading the scriptures. How many times have we read about miracles and instead of being awed, we have taken it lightly? I mean, you know where we read about the hand of God doing something so divine and because there are only a few verses depicting it, we don't comprehend the full magnitude of what God is trying to say to us. I realize God may emphasis certain scriptures during times of our life to minister to us and use the same scripture at yet another time to minister to a different need. This is just another awesome thing about our Lord. God is the same. He hasn't changed. He wants us to know Him and acknowledge Him for all that He is!

I think this was a lesson on the power of the tongue, but it also displays the power God has placed within us, as women. I want to go ahead and share the wondrous message of last Sunday's service and some of the nuggets I came away with. I have read this before, but I had never *gotten* it the way I did Sunday. In 2 Kings Chapter 4 the word says this

8. And it fell on a day, that Elisha passed to Shunem, where was a great woman; and she constrained him to eat bread. And so it was, that as oft as he passed by, he turned in thither to eat bread.
9And she said unto her husband, Behold now, I perceive that this is an holy man of God, which passeth by us continually.
10Let us make a little chamber, I pray thee, on the wall; and let us set for him there a bed, and a table, and a stool, and a candlestick: and it shall be, when he cometh to us, that he shall turn in thither.

How many times have you read verse 8 and realized the woman was "great"? I hadn't. Another thing I had not thought about was this husband/wife must have had wealth. In verse 10 it says they built a little chamber or room. This was apart from the rest of the house, meaning it had it's own entrance for Elisha to come and go as he pleased. Something else, she recognized the anointing of God upon Elisha's life and she wanted to be a help to him. She did this without expecting anything in return. How do I know this? Read verse 13 carefully.

11And it fell on a day, that he came thither, and he turned into the chamber, and lay there.
12And he said to Gehazi his servant, Call this Shunammite. And when he had called her, she stood before him.
13And he said unto him, Say now unto her, Behold, thou hast been careful for us with all this care; what is to be done for thee? wouldest thou be spoken for to the king, or to the captain of the host? And she answered, I dwell among mine own people.

In verse 11 I imagine Elisha going into his private room for rest, maybe after a time he had spent ministering, and thought about all the needs of so many. And then maybe after all the needs of others came to mind, he thought about how nice his room was and how good his supper was. (verse 8) It says that as often as he passed by he ate. He knew he could count on a good meal as well as a place of rest. Considering these things, he wanted to bless her for being a blessing to him, but when called for her and asked what he could do for her, she didn't ask for anything. Whether it was because she had need of nothing or either she was content, I do not know, but Elisha wanted to do something for her and asked Gehazi his opinion on the matter.

14And he said, What then is to be done for her? And Gehazi answered, Verily she hath no child, and her husband is old.

She did not ask for a child. I don't know if this was an unspoken desire of hers or if Gehazi just thought this was the perfect blessing for her. The scripture doesn't state that here. In my own opinion, I think by her reaction in verse 16, she may have had the desire, but given it up long ago. In the next few verses, we read of the son being given to her and the sudden death of him.

15And he said, Call her. And when he had called her, she stood in the door.
16And he said, About this season, according to the time of life, thou shalt embrace a son. And she said, Nay, my lord, thou man of God, do not lie unto thine handmaid.
17And the woman conceived, and bare a son at that season that Elisha had said unto her, according to the time of life.
18And when the child was grown, it fell on a day, that he went out to his father to the reapers.
19And he said unto his father, My head, my head. And he said to a lad, Carry him to his mother.
20And when he had taken him, and brought him to his mother, he sat on her knees till noon, and then died.

Here in verse 20, I cannot, and do not want to imagine the grief and utter shock this woman was going through. What I do want to draw attention to is the strength and faith of this woman. Also in verse 23 what she told her husband when he began to question her about why she was going to see the man of God. IT SHALL BE WELL. She did not tell him the boy was dead. I can't imagine how she was able to keep it together without telling him. The power of words.

21And she went up, and laid him on the bed of the man of God, and shut the door upon him, and went out.
22And she called unto her husband, and said, Send me, I pray thee, one of the young men, and one of the asses, that I may run to the man of God, and come again.
23And he said, Wherefore wilt thou go to him to day? it is neither new moon, nor sabbath. And she said, It shall be well.

In verse 24 I see a woman with a mission. She saddles her own donkey while her servant looks on. Shouldn't he be doing this? Once saddled, she informed the servant to get her to the man of God and get there quick. And not to slow down unless she told him to.

25So she went and came unto the man of God to mount Carmel. And it came to pass, when the man of God saw her afar off, that he said to Gehazi his servant, Behold, yonder is that Shunammite:


Just for a smile moment.... did you catch that southern vernacular in verse 25? " Behold, yonder is that Shunammite:
Emphasis mine on yonder. *smile*
I believe when Elisha saw her coming he knew something must be wrong. This was a woman that would not just come for a visit. Another reason I believe he knew it to be urgent is he told Gehazi in verse 26 to run to her. Notice the questions he told him to ask her and notice her answer. It is Well.

26Run now, I pray thee, to meet her, and say unto her, Is it well with thee? is it well with thy husband? is it well with the child? And she answered, It is well:

She was not wasting time and didn't want to talk about it with anyone except the man of God. She would not be deterred until she got there. Notice what verse 27 says. She grabbed him by the feet. I picture this woman falling at his feet in such sorrow and pain. She had to touch him, he had to know her hurt. Again, verse 28 makes me think she secretly desired a child, but never verbalized it for whatever reason. Look at what she says. I can sense the grief in her words..

27And when she came to the man of God to the hill, she caught him by the feet: but Gehazi came near to thrust her away. And the man of God said, Let her alone; for her soul is vexed within her: and the LORD hath hid it from me, and hath not told me.
28Then she said, Did I desire a son of my lord? did I not say, Do not deceive me?

In verse 29 Elisha sent his servant, but this mother was not going to settle for that. She had come all this way and she was determined. She let Elisha know she wasn't going anywhere until HE went to her son. It's apparent Elisha knew she wasn't playing and she wasn't planning on giving up. Look at what she said in verse 30. I am sure she said those words and I think a little more cause look what it says after that.........."And he arose and followed her." I think he learned a little about dealing with a determined woman. Don't you? *grin*
29Then he said to Gehazi, Gird up thy loins, and take my staff in thine hand, and go thy way: if thou meet any man, salute him not; and if any salute thee, answer him not again: and lay my staff upon the face of the child.
30And the mother of the child said, As the LORD liveth, and as thy soul liveth, I will not leave thee. And he arose, and followed her.

The rest of the story goes on to tell of how her son was restored. Can you see her now? Picking her son up after his life was restored and taking him into their part of the house. Going on into the kitchen to prepare the evening meal for the family like nothing happened. Imagine the conversation around the table when her husband came in to eat. Remember, he had been in the fields. He may have asked her about her trip or maybe she told him everything. Maybe she didn't. Maybe she repeated her previous statement. All is Well. I don't know, but Praise God! What a wonderful thing, but what if the woman would have done things differently? What if soon after her son died she would have went out to her husband and told him the horrible news. I pray I am never confronted with anything like this. When I tried to picture myself, I didn't see me being as strong. I would have probably ran out out of the house screaming for my husband. I'm not saying we shouldn't share things with our spouse, because we are. We should be as one, but in this case, she knew better. Was it because she knew what he would have said to her? Would he have shared her same desperation and faith or would he have joined in mourning and held a funeral? Therefore never knowing the joy of having their son restored. I don't know. I hope you seen the strength and faith of this woman like I did. God has placed something within us, ladies! I know we feel insignificant at times, but God has faith in us. Isn't that wonderful?

It is well. Can we say that with confidence? When I mentioned the power of words, I am not talking about "positve thinking" neither am I saying that we should bury our heads in the sand and act like nothing is going on. I am saying that we need to recognize our problems and then acknowledge God and allow HIM to be God in us!

I know this has been long, but I know it has been worth the time to read. I saw many things in this I had never seen before. Even as I read it again for this post. Something else important here, this is more than a story. It is an actual event that took place. More than one lesson can be taken from this and applied to my life. How about you?

Refreshed

Revival was great! Each night the message was encouraging words that I needed to hear. Anita was wondering what a revival is. One definition states that it is a series of meetings held in the same place for several nights. And it is mainly in the south. That was news to me. I thought it was common in all denominations. My own definition is: A series of meetings held by a guest speaker to "stir up the gifts" within is and reignite the fire of the Holy Ghost in our lives. I feel that it is also a time God uses to minister to us "one on one" and cause us to reflect on our spiritual walk. You know, examine our own selves since we've already figured out what is wrong with everyone else. *grin*

I personally feel that the word should accomplish this in our *normal* services, but sad to say, it doesn't always happen. We have become a people that is "Gospel hardened" meaning we have heard it so much that it falls on ears that are not "hearing" anymore. In other words, some of us have become "immune" to God's word. The book of Revelation opens this up more when it speaks of the churches and the state it is in. Laodician keeps coming to mind here.

Sunday morning service was wonderful. There was a particular story in the bible that I have read many times before, but Sunday I saw it in a different way. I plan to post more on that later. You ladies will like it, I'm sure. I know I did. I will try to post it in the next couple of days. Until then, blessings to all!

Yipee!

YIPEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

It's revival tonight! I am sooooo looking forward to the service! I know it is going to be great! I know Jesus will be there cause I'm taking HIM with me!!!!!!!!!! Praise Him! Praise Him!

Pearly White

I just love the way my teeth feel right after a dental cleaning. Like shiny, new pearls , or what I would imagine new pearls to feel like. I can't help but roll my tongue over my teeth. My mouth feels so much fresher and I almost think water taste purer and I am certain they look a shade whiter. I have also made the resolution to take more care of what I put in my mouth. I don't want them to get dirty. I want this feeling to last forever! I know with time our teeth start to stain, but with all the products available, I want to stay on top of it.

I was thinking about this earlier and comparing it to our spiritual life. How wonderful and "clean" we feel after being washed by the blood of Jesus. As for my own experience, all things were exactly how the scripture described them. They were NEW. It was absolutely true! The grass was greener and the sky was bluer. And most important, Love. I felt such an overwhelming love. Love like I had never known before. I was completely accepted by my Lord. All my former sins had been forgiven and I was now one of His. Speaking for myself, I didn't want anything to stain this "new" creature I had become.(I am not talking about works of the law here, so please don't misunderstand.)

I did not want to do the things the "old" me use to. Those desires, by the grace of God were gone. I wanted to know more about HIM and how to live a pleasing life. I began to read God's word and believe every word of it. I was in church every service and eager to hear the word preached. In my heart, I wanted to do everything possible to *keep* myself clean. I can do nothing apart from Christ. Therein lies the problem.

There is so much going on in this world and life is full of things that keeps us busy and steals our time. The bible tells us that Lot was a righteous man, but his soul was vexed from the things going on around him. We have to remain in constant relationship with our Lord above all else. Nothing ever "goes" right if we don't. (Hard lesson I have learned) And if we are not careful, we allow things to creep back from our "old" life that will "stain" our spiritual walk. Old habits, attitudes, laziness, unconcern for our brothers and sisters are a few and this is why Paul said that he died daily. I don't want to be stained by the world's thoughts and opinions. I want to be clean and holy. " Be ye holy, for I am holy" saith the Lord. Eventually the old man will try to resurrect, none of us are immune to this, but my prayer is we can be like Paul and crucify the flesh. This comes through Christ alone.

Headaches and Purses

It's that time of year again. The sinus pressure that causes the dreadful headache that announces the beginning of Spring. I awoke with one this morning, but Praise God, it was a beautiful day!

I have been busy, busy over the weekend. I had two birthday parties, TWO! I would like to go into detail about why I had two, but I don't want to destroy the image of my perfect mothering skills. Let's just say "better late than never." *smile*


Since discovering Ross Dress For Less and T.J. Maxx, I rarely visit the mall anymore. When I go to the mall, you can bet I hit Kirkland's and Bath and Body Works. I love the new pomegranate lotion at B&B. It smells wonderful. I had a gift card and used every penny of it, plus more, sad to say, but I sure smell good. I had a nice visit to Kirkland's as well. I was only there to browse, but something caught my eye and you know what happened next. Before I knew it, I was at the checkout with a sachet. Their's are the best, you know. That's not all, I must confess, I bought a purse. I know, like what are they doing selling purses? After all, isn't this a *home* store?

I have noticed that the quilted look ones are *in* around here, especially by a certain designer. These were not designer, but looked as good for a fraction of the price. On top of all this good news, there was one in a color combination that I actually liked. (green, for those who may not know what my favorite color is) I took it off the rack and before I could pay for it, another lady had the other one just like it. ( I know she saw mine and had to have it) *smile*
I was going to post a picture, but my flash drive for the camera is in my other purse in the back of the car and.......don't ask.

Where Did I Get Those Shoes?

I wanted to wait until I was "all caught up" to post, but since that isn't happening fast enough, I thought I would pop in and let you know that "I am alive." Praise God! I was out of town for a couple of days. It was absolutely wonderful! My husband and I were celebrating our twenty-second anniversary. CHILD-FREE!! We had a wonderful time. As much as I enjoyed the peace of it all, (call me crazy) I missed my children. Taking in some of the sights and so forth, I would look at something and think "-------- would like to see this" (insert either child's name in blank) Funny how we as mothers are like that, huh?

Shortly after arriving home I got the strongest urge to *spring clean* and it hasn't let up. I pulled several things out of my closet and put them into the big, black bag of *no return*. That means once it goes in there, it goes out. I hold on to stuff that I shouldn't. I don't know why I have a hard time of letting go. Some things hold memories that stir up many emotions such as a diaper pack that had a picture of a baby that could be my daughter's twin. I don't even know where it came from, but I have saved it since she was just a tiny baby. Caleb's first sandals that as so cute and small. It's hard to believe he actually wore these. These things are definitely NOT going anywhere. Then there are cards from friends that I rarely even converse with anymore. These things can really bring on the tears. Why don't we have time to spend with our friends. Okay....I know this is an entire post on it's own, so I won't go there.

Then I have the clothes. Clothes, clothes and more clothes all in various sizes. I have pieces from my "just married" and skinny days and my "been married over 20 years" and not so skinny days. I am not kidding. I ought to check into getting those huge plastic numbers used to seperate the sizes on the racks. Not only would they come in handy in my closet, but they would also make a yard sale rack look much neater. Hmm...I wonder if they are for sale. I have the "I could never get rid of that because I WILL wear it again" piece that is in a size I only dream about. What's bad about this is if I were that size again, I probably wouldn't wear it again, I mean, uh, it would be out of style or then again, maybe not. I have heard that once you see the same style return for a second run, you are real old. Personally, I don't believe in those "old wives tales." *grin* I say if you see it return, grab it out of your closet and put it on!! (If you can still wear it)

Seriously though, the task of closet cleaning is a lot harder than it sounds. I had to make a concerted effort to place things in the "bag of no return." I found shoes that I had never even seen before, much less had worn! What's up with that?!! Blessed I tell you! Blessed! That's what we are, a people that is blessed! Praises to you, my Lord, Jesus!

Prayer Request

I would appreciate everyone that would to please pray for a family at my church. There are 3 sisters from one family that attends and just lost one of their sisters to death last week. Now, a 4th sister that attends another church, lost her husband to a heart attack early this morning. VERY unexpected and devastating! She has buried her sister only one week ago and now is dealing with the death of her spouse. They have a 17 yr. old son who is to graduate this year and as you can imagine, is not doing well. They were very close.

Betty Crocker Lives!

I would like to post about the productive day I've had as a wife and mother with pictures of me in my calico apron, polishing the furniture and how I have all the supper dishes washed, dried, and put away after preparing a fantastic feast. I would also like to add that I have next week's meals (seven nights worth) frozen in little containers awaiting to be popped out and warmed for quick, hearty meals. How all the toys are put away, all the pillows are on the couch where they belong and all the beds made. While I'm still on the subject, all homework is finished, rooms all tidy and laundry all caught up. Ahhhh, and the smell of fresh bread baking wafting through each room is an added bonus.

I can't omit the scenario of my darling children playing yahtzee on the round rug in the livingroom while the dog (mine stays outside) snores mini-decibles on the porch. Or how hubs is relaxed in his easy chair after consuming a large slice of apple pie, made from scratch, no doubt, with huge, juicy, tart apples. Let's don't forget about my planner being jam packed with tons of activities for the coming week and my grocery list waiting to be rescued from the leather binding that keeps it neat and sleek.


This would be deceptive. Nah, not deceptive, a total, flat-out lie. That's southern lingo for those who may not recognize this paticular vernacular. *Grin* As I stated in the beginning paragraph, I would LIKE to post these things, but I can't. Not saying that these things don't take place in some homes, I am sure they do...somewhere....just not here. (I am not against anyone that "has it all together") I have dishes in my sink as I sit here and type. I don't like for them to be there this long, but they are for now. We had take-out for supper. The pillows from my sofa are scattered all over the floor with a book bag, Caleb's shoes and an assortment of toys. My bed is not made. I have a good excuse for this one, but choose not to share it at this time. It's true I have frozen meals, but Lean Cuisine, and a few other companies get the credit for placing them in the little containers. The smell of fresh bread is a memory left at the wal-mart bakery. It wafts through the aisles there for sure.

I have more than one load of laundry that isn't finished and *gasp* I don't even own an apron. The most important truth of this post is I do have a family. They are not perfect. How many times have I snorted (to keep from doing something else) when I open the refrigerator to find 2 drops of milk left in a gallon jug that has been placed back onto an already crowed shelf? THROW IT AWAY, PLEASE! I have the same problem with soft drinks and juice. And dishes. For some unbeknownst reason, dishes can never make it past the kitchen counter. (I am thankful they make it from the coffee table, kitchen table, bedroom) If you're not going to load the dishwasher, can't you please place them in the sink?!!!! Nathan keeps the pillows from the sofa on the floor. No matter how many times I pick them up and put them back he comes behind me and takes them off. It's one of his favorite pastimes, along with the toy parade. No, definitely not a perfect family, but one that is very much loved!

Ramble

I had another birthday this week. Praise God for another year of health! We won't go into my age, but let's just say that my dear friend, Anita was the first to make a comment about my looking older. *Grin* How did she know? I am making plans to eat at one of my favorite restaurants that hubs is taking me to. I hope to go sometime in the coming week. It is difficult to plan with his work schedule. He is also taking me out of town for our anniversary. That is coming next weekend. I know it hasn't been that long since we were away, but I am looking forward to it again. The weather is suppose to be wonderful.
I don't know why, but I have seemed to have taken on the blahs. The last couple of days have been the worst for it. I really don't know why. My daughter told me just today that I looked good, to which I replied, " I should, I have slept for 28 hours!" This of course was after I had taken a shower and fixed my hair. Speaking of hair, I darkened mine and had just a few blonde highlights added. I like it, but my mother doesn't. She likes me au naturale, blonde. My mother is a dark brunette, like my daughter. I got the blonde from my dad's side of the family. That's about the only thing, though. *sigh*
Well, if you haven't noticed by now, this is a total pointless post. I have rambled on about absolutely nothing important. So as not to waste anymore of precious time, I am going to get off here and watch something on t.v. Hah! Now that is being productive!!

Blessings!

I hope all had a wonderful Valentine's Day. Of course hubs had to work so I knew to make plans accordingly. I decided to take my mother out to lunch. She seemed to be pleased with that idea and off I went. She lives about thirty minutes away if I drive the interstate and Iusually do. It was nice be able to spend time with her. There was a time awhile back that I wondered if she would ever be able to do *normal* things again. To God, I am grateful for He has restored her health.

I knew it was sorta hard on Amanda today. Actually, I think it has wore on her for the last couple of days. She had mentioned how her co-workers would be receiving the usual flower and candy expressions of love on this day and how she would not. I tried to ease the pain a little by having her Valentine gift and card ready to greet her upon her awakening. I got her the cutest, gold, heart necklace with matching earrings. She wears more silver, but it was not available. Thankfully, she loved it anyway, in fact, she wore it to work. Her dad also spoiled her with a teddy bear that held a heart pillow inscribed with "Daddy's Little Girl."

Caleb has always been the easiest to please. Knowing this, I got him the heart balloon and his favorite candy. He loves Snickers candy bars. This was his first time ever getting the "big" pack. He thought he had hit the lottery. I started to get him a box of the usual fare, but I knew it would be wasted. He doesn't normally eat too much of that kind of stuff. Grateful, yes, I am. He liked his card as well.

I did purchase Nathan a small box of valentine candy. He is a different story when it comes to eating the junk. Definite limits, but my fear was soon averted. He was hilarious. He took one bite out of each piece and as soon as he got the chocolate all chewed up in his mouth, he would spit it out. That was it. He was finished. Hmmm.... I should try this to help ease the calorie consumption. The balloon was another story. He romped and played with that about all day.

I just have to tell you about my adventure while out buying my family's Valentine's gifts. I have a few places that I love to browse around. I have mentioned my *love* for the Ross Dress For Less before and I also *love/like* T. J. Maxx. I have found some real treasures at these places in the past. In an earlier post I wrote about searching for particular tea cup. Well, I FOUND IT!!!!!!!!! It was a complete and utter suprise to me. If you knew how many times I have combed the shelves looking for this pattern, you would understand. I have found a few pieces, but that is another story I will explain later. When I rounded the end of the counter and spied not one, but two of them sitting on the shelf, I was pure giddy. I know, I should be embarrassed about that and I am. Ahem, moving along, I picked them up ever so gently and welcomed them into my family. I have asked previously about the matching teapot and was told that they get it occassionally, but it is rare. I was content for now with my delicate darlings and cushioned them carefully in the backseat for the rest of the journey.


Before going home, I decided to stop at Marshalls. I had the strange thought that I might find the matching teapot there. As I got out of the car I felt a little rush of excitement. My niece was with me and I turned to her before getting to the china area and said "If that teapot is here, you will have to scoop me up and take me home." I strolled through the doors and to the back of the store and I AM NOT JOKING WHEN I TELL YOU THIS, I had to put my hand over my mouth to keep from making a sound that would surely have a S.W.A.T. team on site. Sitting on a shelf that I had looked at so many times before was the matching teapot that had not been there so many times before!! God is sooooo gooood!!


Now some might say "What has God got to do with this?" Well, remember when I mentioned I had found a few pieces of this pattern before? Here's what happened.
On one of my expeditions I found a beautiful bowl in this same lovely pattern. It just so happened another lady was watching me admire this beautiful piece. She quickly picked it up as I sat it down. I looked past her and saw a big, red box. This is unusual because most pieces are not boxed in this area. Upon examination, I found it to be another bowl just like the first one except it had two pieces that were included for the same price and of course, missing from the first one. The same lady that had picked up the first one was eagerly awaiting my decision on the second one. Believe me, I would have loved to have had this bowl. She asked me if I was going to purchase it and I decided to let her have it. I am not sure she was expecting this as she stammered "Are you sure? You know, Finders, keepers." Again, I let her know it was her's for the taking. She placed it in her cart and got away from there quickly all the while thanking me.

When I first found the teacups, the lady came back to mind. I am fully convinced that I was blessed to *find* the pieces I have been searching for because I relinquished the bowl. It is amazing to know that God, being as great as He is would be concerned about such. Isn't He just wonderful?

Without further ado, I present my latest. And Yes, they are wonderful Valentine, anytime treasures!

Bible Quiz

After I posted this I read the little summary and my thoughts were Hah! Not hardly! I DO NOT KNOW IT ALL! It's just a fun little quiz.

Well, definetly not bragging here, cause I lack reading the word as much as I should lately, but since Beth had her results posted, thought I would too.

You know the Bible 96%!

Wow! You are awesome! You are a true Biblical scholar, not just a hearer but a personal reader! The books, the characters, the events, the verses - you know it all! You are fantastic!

Ultimate Bible Quiz
Create MySpace Quizzes

Suprise

Well, I don't have anything earth shattering to share, but here I am. I have been quite the busy lady lately. Hmmm...that's almost a tongue twister. I have thought of everyone almost daily, but I haven't had the time I needed to stop and post. Something embarrassing did happen to me in Wal-Mart the other day. Since my secret is out about Nathan NOT being potty trained, I will share.
I went to Wal-Mart for what I thought to be an uneventful trip. Once again, I had gone to the huge one that recently opened. Not long after arriving, my sweet one had "did" one and had me looking for the restroom. I went in and just for a fleeting moment, I noticed that there wasn't that many stalls for it to be such a large store. The thing I was impressed with was the changing table. It was nice, large and clean. Very interesting. I was trying to hurry and change Nathan as I heard someone "in" one of the stalls. Just as I was getting his pants up, A man walks in. YES. IT. WAS. A. MAN. With a huge look of shock on his face, he backed up. Another guy was right on his tracks. Thinking about it, they must have been together because he came in behind him. By this time, I am totally embarrassed and I am stammering, sweating, wondering, and trying to figure out why am I in here with two men. Trying to keep it together, I very nicely mumble something about not being in the right place.
All the while I am thinking surely these two men have made a mistake. I mean, I know I am in the right place. I pick Nathan up and try to walk out so nonchalantly. Upon exiting the bathroom, I am met by several men and women that have congregated outside the door. Yes, they were all there and had witnessed the conversation that had just taken place inside the restroom. And there it was, the plaque with the the male figure to indicate which sex had the right to use this facility. Now, I could have just died. Talk about stammering and murmuring incoherently, I was doing that for sure.
I don't remember looking at that sign before entering the bathroom. One reason is because at the Wal-Mart closest to my home, this is the location of the ladies' room. I now know that the placement of the restrooms is the opposite of what I am use to.
As for the person that was in a stall, (whom I assumed was a female) they never made another sound that I heard. I never saw them exit the restroom either. Then again, after I made my grand exit, I didn't stick around for a finale.

We Too, Like Eggs.....

We all have probably heard tips on how to boil eggs to keep the shell from sticking. Put plenty of salt in the water or don't boil fresh eggs, etc. Pretty eggs taste the same as the "ugly" ragged ones, but I usually put plenty of salt in the water and try not to worry about it. Recently, while trying to remove the shells from some that I had boiled, I noticed something. Dry eggs are not easy to peel. The shells were so much easier to remove if I kept submerged them in water.

Isn't that just how we are? We have layers of things that need peeling sometimes. Some things that hinder us from being "pretty" and smoothe. There are lots of things I could mention, but won't. I think we all know what our own shells collect, therefore no need to list here. We are to examine our own selves. What I find interesting is how, we too, like eggs are easier to "peel" if we are "watered" by the Spirit. We do this by staying in the word and walking in fellowship of our Savior. All those things that have "collected" will slide right off. No tugging and pulling necessary.

Bread

He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.

John 14:21

Nap Time

We all know there is nothing like a nap after church and a big 'ole lunch on Sunday afternoon. Just being able to kick off those Sunday slippers and snooze is a great feeling. I captured Nathan getting readybefore we could get home. He usally just twirls his hair with his fingers, but today, well.................you get the picture!

Saturday

There was so much waiting for me to get accomplished today. I didn't. I lounged around until after lunch before deciding to take a shower and get dressed. It has been one of those days. Nice and lazy. We decided to go to Texas steakhouse for a late lunch/early supper. The food was hot and delicious and Nathan was pretty cooperative throughout the meal. This is a great blessing! He usually eats chicken tenders, but not today. He wanted steak. I don't know what brought about his different meat choice, but I am not complaining. Caleb has always been a picky eater and would eat chicken tenders, french fries and honey mustard for every meal if I would allow it. Not wanting Nathan to follow in Caleb's steps, I try to be careful to offer a variety of foods. Not that I didn't do this with Caleb. I did, but he didn't take the bait.
After leaving the restaurant, we were off on a personal hygiene shopping extravaganza. You know, soap, toothpaste, shampoo, etc., etc. A very huge, huge, Wal-mart opened recently and we decided to journey over to it and check it out. I mean, who wouldn't want to blow out $50 worth of gas circling the parking lot? I have to say that I am impressed with the building and the larger selection. I wanted to stroll over every aisle, but I didn't. I gathered our necessities and headed to the checkout. After all, we had to make our next indulgence stop. Baskin Robbins. There's just something about a scoop of Rocky Road packed underneath all that hot fudge and whipped cream. It's a sight to behold and it doesn't taste that bad either! Ohhhh the calories. Too late to worry about that.
On the way home, hubs and I were talking about how God has blessed us. He has given us a wonderful family and a home to keep them in. I am so thankful. There was a time in our marriage, we could barely afford gas and groceries. And McDonald's was a splurge! There was a time in our marriage that we were yet in our sins, and God still loved us! Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound, that saved a wretch like me!

For A Christian

IF

If you can stand before false accusations

And lift your head in grace

and face the lies;

If you can join in other's celebrations

While your life falls in ruin

before your eyes;

If you can grieve with others who are

grieving,

Yet find in Christ a peace beyond

all griefs;

If you can love those who are unbelieving,

and yet stand firm and sure on your beliefs.

If you can lose all wealth and earthly treasure

And count it as the loss of so much dust;

If you can scorn success by mortal measure,

Striving for rewards that cannot rust;

If you can put your hand to Christian labor,

Be buried with Christ, your sins all put to end;

If everyday you can love your neighbor,

you will be a Christian then, my friend.

Ramona K. Cecil

I have this inscribed on a plaque that hangs on my bedroom wall. During a fiery trial a few years ago, I stumbled upon this. Many times I have read it with tears streaming down my face from a broken heart. Don't misunderstand, I don't replace the word or the comfort my dear Lord gives me with this. It's just a reminder that life happens and heartaches are certain on the path that leads us home. I hope you will be comforted too.

First Snow

Hubs wanted us to have a snowman, so I am proud to present "Little Man Snow."

We got our first dusting of snow today. It started just as Amanda left for work. I know that snow is not a big deal to most of you, but where I live, it can be a great menace. In fact, insurance companies cringe in fear. Since we don't get that much snow, we are not equipped for it. There is not enough equipment to keep the roads clear, thus causing many fender benders along the way.

Rain has taken over the snow post, so we don't have to worry about getting anything significant,much to Caleb's dismay. School is in!

Tea For Two

UPDATE......
I need to clarify that the first tea cup is "Ruby Lace" I failed to post this information previously.

Here are the two newest additions to my collection. They are both Royal Albert. The first one is from the "Old Country Roses" pattern. The second one is "Vintage Florals Grape" The first one is my favorite of the moment.





I have tried both of my tea purchases from the Biltmore and both were delicious. Orange Spice is my usual favorite. There is a wonderful pomegranate that I really like, but I haven't found it at a reasonable price. I could purchase it from one of our local tea rooms, but the price is not agreeable with me.







I have made a decision. I am re-painting my diningroom. I purchased the paint from Home Depot already and will soon start the process all over. It will soon be the same color as my livingroom. Have I mentioned lately how pleased I am with my "cliff rock?"






There was a lot of thought before I made my final decision on the diningroom. I had finally gotten brave and decided to paint it RED. I saw a diningroom painted red and liked it. I asked hubs what he thought about it and his reply was "whatever you want." I wanted him to tell me it was a great idea. This would have taken some of the load off me in the event it looked horrible. He wasn't going to add to my decision one way or another. I made up my mind and sped out to the home improvement wonderland, marched up to the paint counter and asked for one gallon of "cliff rock." I just couldnt' do it.

My List

Over at Sara's , she has created a list that has inspired me. So it is with much love and some amusement I decided to create one about the love of my natural life, as well.

1. He is christian and attends church with us. (regularly)
   
   He takes Caleb to school in the mornings, allowing me to sleep late and not have to get Nathan up.
   
   He has an admiration of shoes. (Something I just realized while typing as I thought about how may pair I remove each day from the livingroom.)
   
   He is a shower fanatic, taking several a day. (I'm serious, but thankful even though it increases the laundry load.)
   
   He works very hard, so his family (us) can live in a warm home.
   
   He is a very good father and enjoys spending time with his children.
   
   He doesn't mind eating whatever I cook or bring home (fast food) if I don't cook. (thanks honey)
   
   He will drink hot tea with me. (he prefers coffee)
   
   He enjoys working out in our yard together.
   
   He likes to take me on mini, romantic vacations.
   
   He calls me several times while he is at work, just to chat.
   
   He never goes anywhere without kissing me "bye"
   
   He never goes to sleep without kissing me "goodnight"
   
   He will always let me have a bite of whatever decadent dessert he ordered, but knew I wouldn't.(He does this just for that purpose)
   
   

There are many other things I could list, but I will stick to these for now. After reading over it for myself, I know that I have a great guy!